Ruger and Hornady's compact .338 magnum — a beltless short-action cartridge delivering near-.338 Winchester Magnum ballistics. Part of Ruger's Compact Magnum initiative alongside the .416 Ruger.
Type: Rifle
Introduced: 2008, United States
Parent case: .375 Ruger
Standardization: SAAMI
Bullet diameter: 0.338" (8.59 mm)
Case length: 2.1" (53.34 mm)
Overall length: 2.84" (72.14 mm)
Max pressure: 65,000 PSI
Rim type: Rebated
Primer: Large Rifle
Typical twist rate: 1:10
Muzzle velocity: 2600–2850 fps
Muzzle energy: 3004–4510 ft-lbs
Effective range: 350 yd
Common bullet weights: 200, 225, 250 gr
Primary use: Hunting
Production status: Active
Also known as: .338 Ruger Compact Magnum
History: Developed in 2008 by Ruger and Hornady for the Ruger Hawkeye compact bolt-action. The RCM used a rebated rim to fit a large case body on a standard magnum bolt face, achieving .338 Win Mag performance in a shorter, lighter rifle. Hornady produces factory ammunition in the Dangerous Game Series. The cartridge has found a following among Alaskan guides who prefer a lighter, more maneuverable rifle.
Notable firearms: Ruger Hawkeye, Ruger Guide Gun
Similar cartridges: .338 Winchester Magnum, .338 Federal, .416 Ruger